International Soccer Tours

The Complete Guide to WorldStrides Sports Soccer Tours

University of Maryland Portugal, Spring 2023

Eric McAleer

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Founder and Senior Vice President

I was born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland.

For me and my two older brothers, soccer was a family affair. We would spend hours on the pitch, coming home exhausted and fulfilled. As I got older, I played on the Scottish Youth National Team and professionally at the Division I and Division II level.

It was through soccer that I was exposed to travel. My first trip was to Switzerland as a 12 year old with my high school soccer team. We traveled for 27 hours on a bus from Glasgow to Switzerland and spent five days participating in games against Swiss high school teams. While some of my best memories took place on the bus (imagine the bonding experience—and smell—after 27 hours), the entire trip had a profound influence on me. It opened up my eyes up to a lot of things: the global impact of soccer, the rush of being outside of my comfort zone, and how soccer connected our team with the Swiss teams regardless of our differences.

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In 1998 I started Excel International Sports, now known as WorldStrides Sports, with the goal of showing how international travel can benefit every player. I was determined to give each child a life-changing experience that was just like the one I was so fortunate to have. I wanted to make international travel achievable, and I had a lot of connections abroad in the soccer industry, so I started by taking a few high school and club teams to the United Kingdom in the summer. We drove the length of the U.K., playing against Scottish and English teams and visiting Edinburgh Castle, Old Trafford Stadium, Buckingham Palace, and much more! It was during those early days that the foundation of WorldStrides Sports was set, and we only grew from there.

For over 25 years, we have been dedicated to connecting players internationally.

We hope you enjoy getting to know our team. We would be delighted to have the opportunity to lead yours on an international sports tour.

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What we bring to the field It takes experience to create the experience of a lifetime.

Since 1998, WorldStrides Sports has customized travel programs for North American soccer teams to play all over the world. From youth clubs to ODP to NCAA programs, we unite athletes in the spirit of camaraderie and competition for experiences that showcase new cultures, spark new friendships, and open eyes to the sheer magnitude of the world’s most popular sport.

Our contacts and networking skills put your team on the right field, with the right facilities, against the right competition­—and we arrange this in the country of your choice. Whether you are a leading development academy, ECNL team, or recreation team, we know how to translate your level of play to the international stage, aligning your club with opponents who put your skills to the test and raise the profile of your entire soccer organization.

As part of WorldStrides, the nation's largest student experiential learning company, we’ll help with your time off the field, as well. Sightseeing, servicelearning, or volunteering: We can set you up with activities and events that bond your players with everlasting memories.

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Expert-level team support The United Kingdom. Costa Rica.

Spain. Germany. Italy. France.

Portugal. Wherever you want to go, whatever style of play you want to experience, we make it happen for your club.

Soccer organizations work in different ways around the world—that’s why our expertise isn’t limited to the field of play. We navigate the entire landscape of the trip so you can focus on preparing your team. From the ins and outs of player and team qualifications, to ensuring that matches meet the rules of the regional governing bodies that sanction them, all the way through logistics, lodging, athlete-friendly team meals, group transportation, practice facilities, and cultural excursions, we're committed to managing every detail of your experience to ensure that it's nothing short of world class.

Clear procedures mean confident safety and security Peace of mind for parents, players, and coaches is our number-one priority and has been since day one. We’re specialists in both domestic and international travel, and we’ve been managing student programs for more than 55 years. We’ve got the staff and partnerships that allow us to make any necessary, real-time program adjustments so you can feel confident and covered during every moment of your trip.

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WorldAssist: Our 24/7/365 hotline. It puts live help just a phone call away.

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Doctors-on-Call Program: 24/7 access to George Washington University Department of Emergency Medicine and AXA Behavioral Health

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Dedicated in-house team: Our Health and Safety Team continually monitors world events. We also have more than 70 offices worldwide to further enhance our safety capabilities

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Coverage: Every traveler automatically receives primary medical insurance coverage on all international sports tours and coaches, organizations, and schools are covered on tour under our $50 million liability policy.

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WorldClass Flexibility: Your group will be able to adjust your trip with no additional fees, just the difference (if applicable) in the price of the new trip. Additionally, families receive a price lock guarantee at time of registration which protects them from currency, fuel surcharges, or other necessary trip changes.

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Hey coaches, plan the international soccer experience of a lifetime WorldStrides Sports provides international soccer tours for college, university, ODP, club, academy, and high school teams to the world’s most memorable destinations. We personalize and arrange every aspect of customized itineraries for teams of all levels. Since 1998, we have pursued our goal of taking North American soccer teams around the world to participate in the world’s most beloved game while breaking down barriers of language, culture, and geography.

Club/Academy

ODP (Olympic Development Programs)

High School

Club and academy soccer tours with WorldStrides Sports offer your team the opportunity to share its love of the game with new friends in new places. Our custom designed program packages are unique, fun, affordable, and of the highest quality.

We know how to bring the special aspects of a tour together to create an ideal trip for your team.

ODP soccer tours with WorldStrides Sports offer players an exciting and unique tool that will continue their individual and team development. As soccer experts with firsthand knowledge of an ODP soccer program’s needs, our tours combine games versus local opponents appropriate to your level of play, quality facilities, a guest coaching clinic led by a professional, and unforgettable sightseeing.

Teams we’ve worked with include:

Teams we’ve worked with include:

WorldStrides Sports takes high school teams from around the country to a wide variety of destinations, where they experience international soccer and culture. Our high school soccer tours bring together athletes to experience new cultures, grow closer with teammates, and find camaraderie and competition in the world's most popular sport. Your team can also participate in service-learning projects to help local communities and residents.

— Arlington Soccer Association

— Alabama Soccer Association

— Charlotte Independence

— Arizona Soccer Association

— Colorado Rapids

— Cal North

— Coronado FC — Loudoun Soccer — Maryland United FC — McLean Youth Soccer — Nordic Soccer Club — North Carolina FC Youth — PASS — Potomac Soccer Association — Richmond United — Wilmington Hammerheads Youth FC

— Eastern Pennsylvania Youth Soccer — Illinois Youth Soccer Association — Iowa Soccer Association

Teams we’ve worked with include: — Westminster School — Providence Day School — St. Francis High School — Bishop McNamara High School

— Kentucky Youth Soccer Association

— Benilde St. Margaret's

— Massachusetts Soccer Association

— Friends School

— New Mexico Youth Soccer — Ohio Soccer Association — PA West Soccer (Pennsylvania West) — South Texas Youth Soccer Association — Tennessee Soccer Association — US Youth Soccer National Teams.

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Our trip with WorldStrides Sports was a top quality experience for our program. The training facilities we used were excellent and for our players to face top Portuguese Primeira Liga teams was a great opportunity. This was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our players.

—SASHO CIROVSKI HEAD MEN’S SOCCER COACH, UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND

College/University

Tournaments

WorldStrides Sports organizes international college and university soccer tours for every NCAA division. Each tour is highly customized to meet the specific needs of each school, including the level of your competition, number of desired matches and training sessions, cultural opportunities, and total tour duration. Your team can arrange a post-graduation tour in May, an off-season tour in June, or a pre-season training tour in July/August.

With numerous international soccer tournaments to choose from, your team can raise their game and experience the thrill of playing in Europe with teams from all over the world. The Gothia Cup and the Mediterranean International Cup are just some of the tournaments that our groups participate in annually.

Teams we’ve worked with include: — University of Southern California — West Point Military Academy — Marquette University — Northwestern University — Stanford University

Current tournament choices include: — Dana Cup — Villareal Yellow Cup — Edinburgh Cup — Gothia Cup — Villareal Yellow Cup Easter — Mediterranean International Cup Soccer Tournament

— Yale University — Syracuse University — University of Maryland — Georgetown University — Loyola University — United States Naval Academy — University of Washington

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WorldStrides Sports, building your tour Our soccer tour planning experts work closely with you to make sure your experience meets your goals and team needs. From setting up the right matches and appropriate training to rich cultural experiences, we make it happen for you and your team.

Our entire staff of soccer and travel experts supports your team at every step. Logistics, lodging, athlete-friendly team meals, group transportation, practice facilities, cultural tours—we’ve got you covered. We’re delighted to manage every detail of your overall experience, ensuring that it’s nothing short of world-class.

Design your perfect experience!

Step 1

Step 2

Step 1:

Step 2:

Choose a destination:

Choose places to explore:

United Kingdom (Scotland, England, Ireland)

Buckingham Palace, The Football Museum, the Royal Mile

Spain (Madrid, Barcelona)

La Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas, Santiago Bernabeu

Italy (Turin, Milan) Costa Rica Portugal Anywhere else you can imagine!

Step 3

Irazu Volcano, La Paz Waterfall Gardens Torre de Belem, Lisbon Cathedral, Estadio da Luz

Step 3:

Step 4:

Take a tour of pro clubs:

Watch & play the best soccer of your life:

Old Trafford

Tickets to professional matches

Camp Nou

Coaching clinics with highly regarded professionals

San Siro

Step 4

Piazza San Carlo, Duomo di Milano

Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica Estadio Sport Lisboa e Benfica

Competitive matches against top local teams Tour a professional stadium Attend a local tournament

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Take your trip one step further Academic Credit Our accredited status makes it possible for us to deliver on our commitment to education by offering academic credit for our students.

All students in grades 6-12 at the time of travel have the opportunity to enroll in online coursework that is carefully paired with their travel program. Most assignments are designed to be completed after travel, since they ask students to incorporate much of what they learned during the field experience. Courses vary in theme, content, and length based on the travel destination.

Students in grades 6-12 are eligible to enroll in courses to earn high school credit at no additional cost. Our partnership with George Mason University provides students in grades 9-12 at the time of travel an opportunity to enroll in courses to earn college credit.

Students must meet George Mason University’s admissions requirements to receive the credit, including reporting a 2.8 GPA or above. George Mason University reserves the right to deny credit to any student who does not qualify based on information supplied in the Terms & Conditions or by non-completion of the program.

Upon successful completion and the processing of credits, a transcript may be ordered directly from WorldStrides or George Mason University. Transcripts can be submitted to school registrars for consideration or attached separately to college applications or résumés. Students and educators should check with receiving institutions regarding credit transfer policies.

Questions about academic credit? The Curriculum & Academics team can be reached at discovery@worldstrides.com.

Course Information WorldStrides Sports’ Leadership & Character Coursework has been designed to encourage students to identify qualities related to leadership and character within themselves and to reap the related benefits.

The course content has students examine the difference between good performance and great performance; the degree to which people put the interests of others ahead of their own; willingness to do things for others without regard for what’s in it for them; ability to coach and mentor; and the ability to make decisions and recommendations that benefit the good of everyone and reflect various perspectives.

Community service WorldStrides, a global organization, is committed to educate and serve communities worldwide. Our commitment is fueled by the passion of our team members and partners to make experiential learning accessible, while also being socially, environmentally, and ethically responsible. Together, we accomplish this by investing in initiatives to promote inclusion, diversity, and sustainability.

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The people behind WorldStrides Sports As former players, coaches, and trainers, our team is committed to creating world-class soccer tours for you and your players. With over 50 combined years of experience in the field, our seasoned experts work with you to ensure that all aspects of your tour meet your specific needs and expectations.

Sarah joined WorldStrides Sports as an Account Manager in April 2023. Sarah is passionate about collegiate athletics and the opportunities educational institutions can provide to student-athletes.

Jamie joined the WorldStrides Sports team in January 2018. He brings a wealth of soccer knowledge and experience to the West Coast from his 15 years working in the youth soccer camps and training market.

Jessica comes to Worldstrides after ten years of coaching collegiate women’s soccer. She was the associate head women’s soccer coach at NCAA division 1 Charleston Southern University after serving as the head coach at Florida Tech.

Jonny joined the WorldStrides Sports team in 2017 after completing a two-year Graduate Assistant coaching position at Southwest Baptist University, a Division II school in Bolivar, Missouri.

JAMIE KENT

JESSICA MONARCH

JONNY BROWN

Ashley joined WorldStrides Sports in 2015, having previously worked for Adidas. She strongly believes in the opportunities that a game can create for passionate and determined individuals.

Morgan joined WorldStrides Sports in June 2015. She previously worked in the professional sports industry as a Community Relations Intern for the Baltimore Orioles during the 2014 season.

Sam joined WorldStrides Sports as an Account Manager in January 2022.

He previously served as the Missouri ODP Coordinator and coached for local club and high school soccer teams in St. Louis.

Adam joined WorldStrides Sports in 2017 and works with the European Operations team in London, England. As part of the Product Delivery organization, he is responsible for sports programming on international tours.

ASHLEY CRITES

MORGAN O'DONNELL

SAM YORK

ADAM CALDWELL

Matt joined the WorldStrides Sports team in 2021. He has spent 16 years working in the youth soccer camps and coaching market throughout the Midwest, California, and Texas.

Celeste joined WorldStrides Sports in 2021 as a Group International Sales Consultant and transitioned to the Sports team in 2022 as an Account Manager. Before this, she coached and played water polo in California.

Alicia joined WorldStrides Sports in 2019.

Born in South Africa and currently residing in France, she was appointed Team Liaison Officer with FIFA for the Germany U20 National Team and accompanied them to the 2018 U20 World Cup.

Taylor joined WorldStrides Sports in 2022, working previously as an account manager at Omni Logistics. He spent most of his early life coaching and building relationships within the youth soccer space in North Texas.

MATT VEASEY

CELESTE IPUCHA

ALICIA MIR

TAYLOR CURTIS

SARAH WAGNER

Robin has over 25 years of experience in the travel sports industry, having led many different clubs, colleges, schools and ODP teams to destinations across Europe and the UK.

ROBIN WOOD

Since 1998, Eric has been the Head of WorldStrides Sports. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Eric is a former pro soccer player and physical education teacher. Ask him what he finds most rewarding about his job—sports or education—and Eric will tell you unequivocally that it’s “both, actually!”

ERIC MCALEER HEAD OF WORLDSTRIDES SPORTS

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FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023

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Our incredible journey to New Zealand for the Women's World Cup and the exploration of the stunning country ended after 10 days but the memories will last a lifetime! It's hard to believe how fast the trip flew by, but what an incredible experience it was. I want to take a moment to reflect on our journey. We witnessed some of the world's most talented athletes competing on the soccer field, and we've had the privilege of exploring the natural beauty and culture of New Zealand. I know the student travelers all left the trip with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the world we live in. My hope for the trip was for the students to enjoy the adventure but also learn valuable lessons about teamwork, cultural diversity, and the importance of exploring new horizons and I can confidently say these hopes were fulfilled.

— KARA CARLIN, FRIENDS SCHOOL OF BALTIMORE

Women's World Cup WorldStrides Alumni USA

Alana Cook — Traveled to Spain with WorldStrides in 2018 with Stanford University Women’s Soccer.

Savannah DeMelo — Traveled to Women’s World Cup in Paris, France in 2019 with WorldStrides while playing for University of Southern California Women’s Soccer.

Nigeria

Ashleigh Plumptre — Traveled to Women’s World Cup in Paris, France in 2019 with WorldStrides while playing for University of Southern California Women’s Soccer.

Australia & New Zealand 33 Groups 1032 Participants 16 WWC Games (inc. openers for AUS & USA) 2701 Tickets 38 Friendly Games & Scrimmages 60 Coaching Clinics & Training Sessions 6 Global Ambassador Programs .

WorldStrides Sports in Australia and New Zealand during the Women's World Cup

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Support to help fund the trip WorldStrides Sports is committed to giving every player the opportunity to travel to amazing destinations. We offer several fundraising and financial assistance tools to help students make their trip a reality. Below are several ways we can help you fund your trip.

FLAG Financial Assistance & Advantage Payment Plan Through the FLAG Financial Assistance program, WorldStrides Sports has made it possible for thousands of families to experience the many benefits of educational travel. We also offer a payment plan to make it easier for families to fund their student-athletes’ trip. Call 410-489-2287 Option 1 to see how much money may be available for your trip and discuss payment plan options.

Manchester United Grand Prize Raffle Drawing

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The Gift of Sport Fundraising Program was the key that unlocked the doors to Italy for our daughter. With the unwavering support of our community of family and friends, we raised enough funds to send her on an unforgettable journey, turning her dream of traveling to Italy into a beautiful reality. She not only got to immerse herself in a different culture and witness breathtaking sights but also had the opportunity to build lasting friendships.

— SHAWANDA R, PARENT, SOUTH TEXAS ODP (her daughter, Shalon raised enough money to cover the entire cost of her trip)

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We also offer the ultimate fundraiser—the Manchester United Raffle! Student-athletes can sell raffle tickets for the chance to win a four-day trip for two to a Manchester United home game at Old Trafford. The money raised will be theirs to apply toward the cost of their sports tour.

Gift of Sport Thousands of student-athletes have received millions of dollars through our Gift of Sport program! We provide easyto-use letters that student-athletes can send to get donations from friends, family members, and local organizations.

WorldStrides Soccer

International Soccer Itineraries You and your team will benefit from competing in friendly matches against local competition, participating in coaching clinics with highly regarded professionals, touring top league stadiums, and the opportunity to attend a professional match.

All of our inclusive experiences include: — Round-trip airfare — Hotel accommodations — Ground transportation to and from all activities — Admissions and fees for scheduled activities — Expertly trained tour directors — Two meals a day — 24-hour emergency support These are just a few of the inclusive experiences offered to you through WorldStrides. Contact us to learn more and discover the other experiences we offer.

Scotland Glasgow

Experience the vast differences between North America and the United Kingdom when you join WorldStrides Sports to visit and compete in Scotland.

for the arts as it is for its long and turbulent history. Both the Old and New towns are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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DAY 1 —

Flight to Scotland

DAY 2 —

Welcome Meeting & Training Session Participate in a training session at a local field in the central Scotland area. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

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The Royal Mile Walk down the Royal Mile, one of the most famous and scenic city walks in Europe. We will view St. Giles' Cathedral and conclude at Holyrood Palace. We will enjoy plenty of shopping along the way.

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Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the central Scotland area.

The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

DAY 3 —

Travel to Edinburgh Edinburgh is widely regarded as one of Europe's most attractive cities, due primarily to its impressive medieval and Georgian districts and surrounding Lothian Hills. It is as famous

Edinburgh Castle Visit Edinburgh Castle, a place filled with history, legend, and lore.

Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline from its rocky outcrop towering above the jumble of medieval tenements, a brooding presence gazing down over the gracious Georgian New Town. This ancient stronghold has history seeping out of the stonework, with an undeniable "wow" factor. Our visit will include St. Margaret's Chapel, the State Apartments, the Great Hall, and the Crown Chamber, which houses the Honours of Scotland (Scottish Crown Jewels).

DAY 4 —

Training Session Participate in a training session at a local field in the central Scotland area. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

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Travel to Glasgow Glasgow is the heart of Scottish football and home to both Rangers and Celtic. At least twice a year, Rangers and Celtic contest the Old Firm, one of football's fiercest and most enduring rivalries. The rivalry between Celtic and Rangers recalls deep socio-

Spotlight Tour: University of Washington The University of Washington Men’s soccer team embarked on a 12-day summer adventure to Scotland.

They were able to visit Glasgow, and castles in Edinburgh and Stirling. The team played in some exciting friendly matches, attended a few stadium tours, and took part in a distillery tour at Glen Moray.

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political divisions in Scottish history, and a trip through Glasgow will strengthen an understanding for how the history of these clubs is intimately tied to the history of the city.

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Glasgow City Walk Home of Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, and the Royal Concert Hall, Glasgow is the center of contemporary Scottish culture-and a hotbed of trendy restaurants, boutiques and pubs. Glasgow grew around a church built in the mid-6th century, but many of its most impressive buildings are from the 19th century, when an industrial boom led to a building frenzy.

Your Tour Director will lead you to some of the city's most famous sites, passing Glasgow's blend of modern and traditional architecture. See the Venetian-style colonnaded façade of the city chambers, take in the statuary at George Square, and peek into the academic world of Strathclyde University. Glasgow has more than just buildings. It's often referred to as "The dear green place," because of its many parks.

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Celtic Football Club Stadium Tour Celtic Park is one of the biggest football stadiums in Europe, making it the perfect place to learn all about the colorful history and heritage of Celtic Football Club from its inception in 1888. Experience firsthand Celtic's heritage and culture that has made the club famous and renowned around the world. Take a guided tour of the stadium as well as a trip through the history of the club through our various informative and impressive exhibitions. (Please note dressing room access on the day before a match may be restricted depending on first team activity at the stadium.)

Itinerary Overview Day 1 Departure from North America Day 2 DAY 5 —

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DAY 7

Travel to Stirling The medieval town of Stirling grew up around one of Scotland's most important fortresses, and the Old Town is still surrounded by its original 16th century walls. The town served as the backdrop for one of William Wallace's 13th century battles and continued to be of strategic importance in the Jacobite uprisings.

Stirling Excursion The medieval town of Stirling grew up around one of Scotland’'s most important fortresses and the Old Town is still surrounded by its original 16th century walls. The town served as the backdrop for one of William Wallace’'s 13th century battles and continued to be of strategic importance in the Jacobite uprisings.

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Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the central Scotland area.

The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

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Professional Coaching Clinic This clinic will be led by a guest coach, player, or instructor.

The clinic will be designed exclusively for the team and to enhance skills in areas identified by the coaching staff.

Attend Professional Match Attend a professional soccer match. Seeing international players compete in person would itself be unforgettable, but add the passionate crowds singing, cheering and chanting and you will enter an atmosphere that can only be understood through personal experience. Please note that this activity is subject to availability as it is based on the league’s fixture list at the dates the group is travelling.

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Day 3

Scottish Football Museum Based within Hamden Park, the Scottish Football Museum will take you on a football journey like you have never seen before. There are thousands of objects on display, tracing the history of football in Scotland and highlighting some of the most memorable games and players. Sit in what was the original dressing room from the old Hampden and listen to Craig Brown addressing his Scotland team. Marvel at the original Scottish Cup, the world's oldest national trophy, and even visit the Scottish Football Hall of Fame which features some of the greatest Scottish players to ever play the game.

Tour of Edinburgh & Friendly Match Day 4 Training Session, Tour of Glasgow, & Celtic Football Club Stadium Tour Day 5 Tour of Stirling & Friendly Match Day 6 Coaching Clinic & Attend Professional Match Day 7 Scottish Football Museum

DAY 8

DAY 6 —

Arrival in Scotland & Training Session

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Trossachs Tour Travel through the spectacular landscape of the Trossachs.

This area of rugged mountains, forests, and lochs including Loch Lomond is forever associated with Sir Walter Scott's outlaw hero, Rob Roy. During our tour we will make several photo stops and take time to admire the breathtaking Scottish highlands scenery. We will also stop at a Woolen Mills, a perfect opportunity to purchase items and wool made in Scotland.

Loch Lomond Boat Ride Known as the Queen of Scottish Lochs, the banks of Loch Lomond are amongst the most enchanting and romantic beauty spots in the British Isles. The largest expanse of fresh water in great Britain Loch Lomond measures 23 miles long, five miles wide, and is Scotland's third deepest loch at 636 feet. The loch's abundance of wildlife, rich history, and spectacular natural beauty make it one of Scotland's most appealing and enduring visitor destinations. We will enjoy a casual cruise along the shores.

Day 8 Trossachs Tour, Loch Lomond tour & Friendly Match Day 9 Departure from Scotland

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Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the central Scotland area.

The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

DAY 9 —

Travel to North America Our rewarding and enjoyable tour comes to an end as our Tour Director accompanies us to the airport on our final day.

Our team learned so much from a trip like this, they had the opportunity to play against seasoned professionals and compete in environments that are second to none. Overall, it was a great See a video of trip and we couldn't be happier. their trip by — JAMIE CLARK, HEAD COACH

scanning the QR code.

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Italy

Milan & Turin Embrace a completely different lifestyle and style of play when your team visits and competes in Italy with WorldStrides Sports. From the fashion and design of Milan to the renowned architecture and cuisine of Turin, this life-changing trip will unite your players amidst an amazing backdrop.

DAY 3 —

Professional Coaching Clinic Participate in a special coaching clinic with a guest coach, player or instructor. The clinic will be designed exclusively for the team and to enhance skills in areas identified by the coaching staff.

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Turin Walking Tour Highlights include: Piazzo San Carlo, the Via Roma, and Piazza Castello.

DAY 1 —

Flight to Italy

DAY 2 —

Welcome Meeting Begin with a welcome meeting and orientation. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the area around the hotel.

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Training Session Participate in a training session at a local field. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

DAY 4 —

Juventus Stadium Tour Stroll through the dressing rooms, the players' tunnel, the media area, and other exclusive parts of the stadium. We will also visit the Juventus Museum to relive all the club's history and triumphs. We will enjoy a unique and memorable experience packed with technology, multimedia, and memorabilia.

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Friendly Match Play a friendly match against a local club or academy team.

The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

DAY 6 —

Duomo Visit Spend time in central Milan's Piazza del Duomo and visit the unique and beautiful Gothic Duomo. The cathedral is easily recognizable because of its unusual roofline, consisting of 135 spires and numerous statues and gargoyles. We will view the cathedral's beautifully crafted stained glass windows, the treasury, and the remains of the original 4th century baptistry.

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Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II We will stroll around the four-story covered double arcade of shops in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II; it was originally designed in 1861 and built by Giuseppe Mengoni between 1865 and 1877. The imposing street is covered over by an arching glass and cast iron roof, and the central octagonal space is topped with a glass dome. The Galleria connects two of Milan's most famous landmarks, the Duomo and the Teatro Alla Scala.

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Casa Milan Visit Visit Casa Milan and the new headquarters of AC Milan. The contemporary new building,unveiled for the 2014-15 season, is complete with a museum, store and the Cucina Milanello restaurant. Browse AC Milan history in the museum, shop for more souvenirs and then, if option selected, visit the restaurant for a light lunch.

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Training Session Participate in a training session at a local field. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

DAY 5 —

Travel to Milan Arrive at a hotel in the greater Milan area that will be your base for your final four nights.

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Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels, and have the opportunity to make friends for life.

Spotlight Tour: Maryland ODP Maryland ODP traveled to Northern Italy, where they were able to visit Milan and Turin. The team enjoyed a tour of Juventus Stadium and participated in adrenaline-pumping training sessions and matches. They also explored the Piazza del Duomo in Milan and spent some much-deserved down time in the famous paradise of Lake Como.

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Itinerary Overview Day 1 Departure from North America Day 2 DAY 7 —

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Training Session Participate in a training session at a local field. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

Travel to Lake Como Life is slower around the northern Italian lakes than in megapaced Milan; Como is an ideal base for drawing breath and kicking back. Sitting on the southwestern tip of Lake Como, the city is essentially a center of commerce with a small medieval quarter and a pretty waterfront. People love the area for its ancient heritage, fine churches, and lake views. Como is the jumping off point for most adventures on the lake and is surrounded by stretches of wooded hiking trails up to Bellagio.

High-Speed Ferry to Bellagio Sail across Lake Como to spend some free time exploring the charming cobbled streets, elegant villas and impressive lake views of Bellagio.

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Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels, and have the opportunity to make friends for life.

Attend a Professional Match Attend a professional soccer match. Seeing international players compete in person would itself be unforgettable, but add the passionate crowds singing, cheering and chanting and you will enter an atmosphere that can only be understood through personal experience. Please note that this activity is subject to availability as it is based on the league’s fixture list at the dates the group is travelling.

DAY 9 —

Travel to North America Our rewarding and enjoyable tour comes to an end as our Tour Director accompanies us to the airport on our final day.

Day 3 Professional Coaching Clinic & Turin Walking Tour Day 4 Juventus Stadium Tour & Friendly Match Day 5 Travel to Milan & Friendly Match Day 6 Milan Tour, Casa Milan & Training Session Day 7 Training Session, Lake Como & Boat Cruise Day 8 San Siro Stadium Tour, Friendly Match, & Attend a Professional Match Day 9 Departure from Italy

DAY 8 —

Arrival in Italy & Training

San Siro Stadium Guided Visit Pay homage to 'the beautiful game' in Milan with a guided tour of San Siro Stadium, where both AC Milan and FC Internazionale Milano (aka Inter Milan) play. Inside we will explore the stadium's public areas and gaze down at the pitch from the tiered seating stands. We will visit the press room where post-match interviews and photo sessions take place, and then take a walk through the 'tunnel of champions' to the pitch. Often you can also visit the changing rooms. We conclude in the stadium museum, a place full of football paraphernalia with trophies, cups, shirts and more.

Learn more about traveling to Italy! Scan the QR code.

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Spain

Barcelona & Madrid Lead your athletes through the ages as you travel around Spain with WorldStrides Sports. Enjoy the international urbanity of Madrid, the artistic history of Barcelona, and the beautiful architecture of Zaragoza.

Through it all, your team will be learning and bonding while practicing both their soccer and life skills.

DAY 3 —

Barcelona Guided Sightseeing Tour Discover the city known for white sandy beaches, bustling boulevards lined with tapas bars, twisting modern architecture, dramatic cathedrals with spindly steeples and,of course, a passion for futbol.

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Professional Coaching Clinic Participate in a special coaching clinic with a guest coach, player or instructor. The clinic will be designed exclusively for the team and to enhance skills in areas identified by the coaching staff.

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Gaudi's Sagrada Familia Visit This breathtaking church, said to be the masterwork of architect Antoni Gaud[, has been under construction since 1882 and is not expected to be completed until 2026!

Despite its unfinished state, the church has 18 spindle­shaped towers that soar above the church itself, making for a striking addition to Barcelona's skyline and more than worth the visit.

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Girona Tour Director-Led Excursion Enjoy a walking tour of Girona. Begin along the Riu Onyar, admiring Girona's best known view, before exploring the Rambla de la Libertat and El Call, the medieval Jewish Quarter, where the first Hanukkah celebration since the Jewish expulsion of 1482 was celebrated in 1998.

Parc Guell Spend time in Parc Güell, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site." Designed primarily by Gaudí, particularly interesting areas of the park include a mosaic pagoda, a lizard fountain spitting water, an undulating bench decorated with ceramic fragments, and an array of unique Doric columns, which are hollow and serve as part of Gaudí's drainage system.

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Camp Nou Stadium Tour Become a 'Cules' for the day when you visit the largest stadium in Europe and the home of the great FC Barcelona.

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Free time in Barcelona

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Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the Barcelona area.

The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

DAY 1 —

Flight to Barcelona

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DAY 2 —

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Welcome Meeting Barcelona is the heart and soul of Cataluña, and, with one of Spain's largest ports, has grown through trade and tourism. This beautiful city charms visitors at every turn with its vibrant spirit. We will have use of a private coach and driver while touring for the next seven days.

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Training Session Participate in a training session at a local field in the Barcelona area.

The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

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Olympic & Sport Museum With a historic, ethical, playful and education vision, the Joan Antoni Samaranch Olympic and Sport Museum is home to pioneering equipment in Europe. It shows a global perspective on all disciplines and methods of sport in an interactive space that boasts advanced technology in all areas Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the Barcelona area.

The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

Spotlight Tour: North Carolina FC Youth NCFC ECNL Elite Premier U14 Boys team got a chance to visit Barcelona and Madrid in Spain! They enjoyed city tours of both cities, where they saw landmarks such as Parc Guell and Plaza De Espana and played a few friendly matches in both Barcelona and Madrid. However, one of the undisputed highlights was touring Camp Nou, the largest football stadium in Europe!

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DAY 4

DAY 5

DAY 6 —

Travel to Madrid

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Training Session Participate in a training session at a local field in the Madrid area.

The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

DAY 7 —

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DAY 8

Madrid Guided Sightseeing Tour Get a taste of Spain's cultural, political and economic center with a tour led by a licensed local guide. See Madrid's mix of traditional and modern as you visit the Royal Palace, an 18th-century masterpiece. The enormous Baroque palace currently has more rooms (2,800) than any other European palace, but it was originally supposed to be four times as large. The palace is dripping with porcelain, jeweled clocks, amazing ceiling frescoes-the most magnificent, in the Throne Room, was done by the Venetian artist Tiepolo when he was in his seventies.

Next take a look at the Neoclassical architecture of the Prado Museum and the Puerta de Alcala triumphal arch, built to honor Carlos Ill's entry into Spain.

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Puerta del Sol Explore the Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid's busiest and most historic squares. While here we will view the Kilometre Zero marker, from which all distances in Spain are measured, and Madrid’s symbol, the Madrono.

Plaza Mayor Spend time in the Plaza Mayor, Madrid's most famous square. Throughout its long history the square has hosted markets, bullfights, soccer games, public executions, and the Spanish Inquisition. It is now ringed by shops and cafés and is often filled with artists and musicians.

Plaza de España The Plaza de España is a popular place to gather in Central Madrid.

It features a large monument to Miguel de Cervante, author of Don Quixote.

Attend Professional Match Attend a professional soccer match. Seeing international players compete in person would itself be unforgettable, but add the passionate crowds singing, cheering and chanting and you will enter an atmosphere that can only be understood through personal experience. Please note that this activity is subject to availability as it is based on the league’s fixture list at the dates the group is travelling.

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Real Madrid Stadium Guided Visit Tour of the Santiago Bernabé Stadium Home of the Real Madrid football club. The third most visited museum in Madrid. The museum compiles all of the history surrounding the club and has interactive screens to learn everything about the team. Our tour will include a walk on the field and an opportunity to enter the dressing room of the team to feel the excitement the players feel before going out on the pitch. (The tour may be modified in the event of a match day.)

LEGENDS Madrid Visit Located near the Puerta del Sol, LEGENDS Madrid invites you to a spectacular chronological journey through the history of football. Enjoy a colossal permanent exhibition, which includes transcendental experiences and events around the beautiful sport. Feel the emotions experienced by the protagonists in the main competitions through objects and original pieces of incalculable value.

Admire the jerseys of the greatest: Pelé, Cruyff, Maradona, Messi, Zidane, Iniesta, Paolo Rossi … or discover what the boots and balls of the first World Champions were like. All that and much more awaits you at LEGENDS Madrid.

Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the Barcelona area.

The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

Itinerary Overview Day 1 Departure from North America Day 2 Arrival in Spain & Training Session Day 3 Barcelona Sightseeing, Olympic & Sport Museum & Friendly Match Day 4 Tour of Girona & Professional Coaching Clinic Day 5 Camp Nou Stadium Tour, Free Time, & Friendly Match Day 6 Travel to Madrid & Training Session Day 7 Tour of Madrid & Attend a Professional Match Day 8 Real Madrid Stadium Tour, LEGENDS Madrid Visit, & Friendly Match Day 9 Departure from Spain

DAY 9 —

Travel to North America Our rewarding and enjoyable tour comes to an end as our Tour Director accompanies us to the airport on our final day.

Really well organized and safe trip, great tour directors and support staff from Worldstrides!

— BRETT MALONE, HEAD COACH

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Portugal Lisbon

From wooded hills to popular squares to relaxing beaches, you and your athletes can take it all in during a trip to Portugal with WorldStrides Sports.

You will be astounded at how traveling in a group can positively impact your team’s camaraderie and how much each individual’s investment in the sport can grow.

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Flight to Lisbon

DAY 2 —

Welcome Meeting Lisbon is a charming capital city with a rich cultural heritage. The city is a striking mix of old and new, with a laid-back pace that welcomes visitors to this European capital. Our 24-hour Tour Director will meet us at the airport and remain with us until our final airport departure. We will have use of a private coach and driver while touring for the next seven days. For the next seven evenings, we will enjoy our Lisbon area hotel.

Lisbon Walking Tour Enjoy a walking tour and explore the riverfront Praco do Comercio, Lisbon’s most famous and popular square.

View the Equestrian Statue of Dom Jose and walk through the city’s Alfama area, the old-fashioned residential neighborhood that survived the earthquake of 1755.

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Castle Of Sao Jorge Explore the Castle of Sao Jorge, the nucleus of the original city, inhabited by the Phoenicians and subsequently by every other ruler.

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Mosteiro Do Jeronimos Tour the Mosteiro dos Jeronimos, a monastery commissioned

by Manuel the Fortunate to commemorate Vasco da Gama's voyage to India. The monastery is one of Portugal’s finest examples of Manueline architecture that combines flamboyant Gothic and Moorish influences with elements of the nascent Renaissance. The church features tombs of many of the great figures in Portuguese history, including Vasco da Gama.

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Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the Lisbon area. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

Spotlight Tour: University of Maryland The Maryland Men’s soccer team traveled to Portugal, which was a brand-new destination for a program that traveled on our very first trip back in 1999! The team visited the bustling cities of Lisbon and Porto, watched some exciting matches, and went on a tour of Estadio Da Luz stadium.

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DAY 4 —

Travel to Sintra Only half an hour from Lisbon, the beautiful town of Sintra is dotted with historic palaces and surrounded by wooded hills. The town, which was once the favorite summer residence of the kings of Portugal, has been internationally acclaimed by poets and artists over the years and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural landscape in 1995.

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Palace Of Pena Visit the spectacular Palace of Peña, built in the 19th century as King Ferdinand’s summer home. King Ferdinand loved art, nature, and new innovation, which is reflected in the interior of this enchanting palace that is filled with oddities from all over the world. Explore the park that surrounds the palace. You will have some free time to explore the area.

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Attend Professional Match Attend a professional soccer match. Seeing international players compete in person would itself be unforgettable, but add the passionate crowds singing, cheering and chanting and you will enter an atmosphere that can only be understood through personal experience. Please note that this activity is subject to availability as it is based on the league’s fixture list at the dates the group is travelling.

DAY 3

DAY 1 —

Training Session Participate in a training session at a local field in the Lisbon area.

The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

DAY 5 —

Benefica - Estadio Da Luz Tour Take a guided tour of Estadio da Luz, home to Benfica. The stadium reflects the greatness of its host club and is the biggest and most modern sports venue in Portugal. Since its inauguration, the stadium has received over 11 million spectators and countless matches and events. Highlights of our tour will include the dressing rooms, the Presidential

Itinerary Overview Day 1 Departure from North America Day 2 Tribune VIP area, the press conference room, the players' tunnel, the pitch and bench, and the eagle Vitoria, Benfica's mascot and symbol which flies around the stadium and presents an awe-inspiring sight. Our tour concludes as we travel back in time through the Benfica Museum, featuring memorabilia from its storied history. You will be given free time to wander through the museum.

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Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the Lisbon area. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

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Professional Coaching Clinic Participate in a special professional coaching clinic with a guest coach, player or instructor. The clinic will be designed exclusively for the team and to enhance skills in areas identified by the coaching staff.

Arrival in Portugal & Training Session

Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the Lisbon area. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

Day 3

Free Time At The Beach Spend some time relaxing on one of Lisbon's magnificent beaches. Enjoy the sand, sun, and watching the surfers as you relax for the day. The beaches have numerous activities available for everyone.

Day 5

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DAY 6 —

DAY 8

Travel to North America Our rewarding and enjoyable tour comes to an end as our Tour Director accompanies us to the airport on our final day.

Lisbon Sightseeing & Friendly Match Day 4 Attend a Professional Match Estadio Da Luz Stadium Tour & Friendly Match Day 6 Professional Coaching Clinic Day 7 Training Session & Belem Sightseeing Day 8 Friendly Match & Beach Free Time Day 9 Departure from Portugal

DAY 7 —

Training Session Participate in a training session at a local field in the Lisbon area.

The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

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Walking Tour Of Belem Take a walking tour of Belem to explore Portugal’s former glory, expressed in the areas imposing and exuberant buildings. During our walk we will view the Praca do Imperio, the Archeological Museum, and the Palacio de Belem.

Scan the QR code to read an article about their trip!

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Germany Munich

Educate your athletes on the culture and history of Germany and Austria when you visit with WorldStrides Sports. Tour the stately boulevards of Munich, the somber Dachau Concentration Camp, the Old Quarter of Salzburg, and more. The players will never forget the journey or their time together, and both will benefit your team’s playing ability.

DAY 2 —

DAY 1 —

Flight to Munich

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Welcome Meeting Munich is the capital city of Bavaria. It was founded in the 12th century, and named for a settlement of Benedictine monks. Munich is now a cosmopolitan city that is at the forefront of the financial and publishing industries and notable for its role in the development of music and the arts. We begin with a welcome meeting and orientation.

Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the area around the hotel. We will have use of a private coach and driver while touring for the next seven days.

Training Session We will participate in a training session at a local field. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

DAY 4 —

Friendly Match We will play a friendly match against a local club or academy team. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

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Dachau Concentration Camp Visit the Dachau Concentration Camp. In 1933, what had once been a quiet artists’ community became a tragic symbol of the Nazi era, the first German concentration camp. The audio guided tour of the camp includes the memorial chapels and two of the rebuilt barracks. The Museum is housed in the large building that once contained the kitchen, laundry, and shower baths.

DAY 5 —

Professional Coaching Clinic We will participate in a special Coaching Clinic with a guest coach, player, or instructor.

The clinic will be designed exclusively for the team and to enhance skills in areas identified by the coaching staff.

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Neuschwanstein Castle Neuschwanstein Castle is situated on an outcrop of rock towering over a gorge in the River Pöllat.

King Ludwig II himself only lived here for 172 days, but the highlight of the castle tour is the Throne Room, designed in Byzantine style with gilded mural paintings, mosaics, and a huge chandelier.

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The Alpsee Coaster The Alpsee Coaster in Immenstadt is Germany's longest yearround toboggan run, featuring 68 bends, 23 waves, seven jumps, and four bridges, which guarantee maximum fun. Control your own speed as you head down the mountain and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

DAY 3 —

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Training Session We will participate in a training session at a local field. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

Munich Walking Tour We will take a city tour of Munich by bus and on foot. We will view the many spectacular Baroque churches, the stately boulevards, and explore the Aldstadt (Old Quarter) and Marienplatz, the heart of Munich. In the Marienplatz, we will view the famous Glockenspiel clock on the new town hall.

Marienplatz Discover the area of Munich around Marienplatz which is dedicated to the patron of the city. See the Neus Rathaus and observe the Glockenspiel on its facade. This is the fourth largest chiming clock in Europe, and stages an elaborate performance twice a day.

Spotlight Tour: South Texas ODP The South Texas ODP team got a chance to visit Dortmund, Germany for over a week of training with the Borussia Dortmund coaching staff, attend a professional match, and play against some top-quality players. One of the highlights of their trip was taking a tour behind-the-scenes at the home stadium of FC Schalke 04!

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Itinerary Overview Day 1 Departure from North America Day 2 DAY 6 —

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Travel to Salzburg With its elegant squares and quaint streets, the famous Baroque city of Salzburg is a delightful introduction to the sophisticated world of the classical genius W.A. Mozart.

Salzburg Walking Tour Take a walking tour through the Old Quarter, which includes the city's main attractions. Highlights of our walk will include: Hauptplatz, the original marketplace that is one of Europe's biggest and most beautiful squares with baroque and rococo facades surrounding it; the Rathaus (Town Hall); the Trinity Column (Dreifaltigkeitssaule) built in 1723 to mark the city's deliverance from plague, fire, and Turkish invasions; and the Brucknerhaus, a beautiful concert hall named in honor of Anton Bruckner, the Linz-born composer, which has an elliptical facade of glass and steel with a wooden interior. Spend free time on Salzburg's most famous street, the Getreidegaße, which is lined with small shops, interesting houses, and wroughtiron signs.

Friendly Match We will play a friendly match against a local club or academy team. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

the street, right next to the company's headquarters, which was constructed in the shape of a four-cylinder engine.

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Training Session We will participate in a training session at a local field. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

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Olympia Park Site of the 1972 Olympics, this landscaped park contains sport facilities, lakes, bicycle paths, concert venues, restaurants, and a football stadium, as well as its landmark "tent-style" roofs. Don't miss the fascinating BMW Museum across

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Allianz Arena Stadium Guided Visit This enormous stadium, home to both of Munich's football clubs, has been the venue for the FIFA World Cup and is the first stadium in the world to have an exterior that changes colors based on the team or concert, playing that day.

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BMW Museum Explore the BMW Museum, which brings BMW’s heritage to life through an innovative, multi-sensory experience and spans a history of more than 90 years. The museum is also notable for its architecture, particularly its circular building known as the “bowl.”

Arrival in Germany & Training Session Day 3 Tour of Munich & Training Session Day 4 Friendly Match & Concentration Camp Visit Day 5 Professional Coaching Clinic & Neuschwanstein Castle Day 6 Travel to Salzburg & Friendly Match Day 7 Training Session & Allianz Arena Stadium Tour Day 8

Friendly Match We will play a friendly match against a local club or academy team. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

Friendly Match & Attend a Professional Match Day 9 Departure from Germany

Attend A Professional Match Attend a professional soccer match. Seeing international players compete in person would itself be unforgettable, but add the passionate crowds singing, cheering and chanting and you will enter an atmosphere that can only be understood through personal experience. Please note that this activity is subject to availability as it is based on the league’s fixture list at the dates the group is traveling.

DAY 9 —

Travel to North America Our rewarding and enjoyable tour comes to an end as our Tour Director accompanies us to the airport on our final day.

An international trip with WorldStrides remains an exceptional experience. I am always more than satisfied with the service and attention to detail.

— DENISE CHURCHILL, STYSA ADMINISTRATOR

Scan the QR code to learn more about traveling to Germany.

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England

London & Manchester Experience the diversity and history of the United Kingdom when you join WorldStrides Sports to visit and compete in England. The country’s language and culture is vastly different from that of North America, despite the shared language, and there are equally interesting differences in play for your athletes to explore.

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Flight to England

DAY 2 —

Welcome Meeting Our base for the next four nights will be in the London area.

Breakfast and dinner (or lunch) will be included at the hotel. We will begin with a welcome meeting and orientation.

Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the area around the hotel.

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London City Tour See the sights of London on our private bus with a guide for two hours. Some highlights may include: St. Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, St. James's Park, and Buckingham Palace, where we may have an opportunity to see the Changing of the Guard ceremonies.

Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the greater London area.

The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

DAY 4 —

Training Session Led by your own coaching staff.

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Tower of London Visit the Tower of London, one of Britain’s most fascinating and important historical structures. Our visit includes the armories, a display of instruments of torture and execution and the breathtaking Crown Jewels Exhibit

Spotlight Tour: US Youth Soccer During the US Youth Soccer tours, the teams traveled across the pond to England, the home of football. They attended multiple professional matches, including Arsenal vs. Chelsea in the Women’s League Cup Final and the Spurs vs. AC Milan match in the UEFA Champions League. Plus, they participated in training sessions, took in the sights of the city, and a treasure trove of other experiences.

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DAY 5 —

Windsor Castle Excursion See how the Queen relaxes on this tour of the royal weekend estate (originally built as a fortress in the 11th century, when William the Conqueror ruled). Tiptoe through the tulips (and other flowers) in the East Terrace Gardens. Alternatively see the Gothic-style St. George's Chapel or peek into the rooms of Queen Mary's doll house with its gallery of pint-size perfect furniture. Get decorating tips for your own country estate (uh, dorm room, that is).

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Friendly Match Play an international friendly match against a local club or academy team in the greater London area.

The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

DAY 3

DAY 1 —

Training Session Participate in a training session at a local field in the greater London area. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

DAY 6 —

Travel to Manchester Arrive in the greater Manchester area that will be your base for the last three nights

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Professional Coaching Clinic This clinic will be led by a guest coach, player or instructor and is designed exclusively for the team and to enhance skills in areas identified by the coaching staff.

Itinerary Overview Day 1 Depart from North America Day 2 DAY 7 —

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Old Trafford Stadium Tour Take a guided tour and go behind the scenes at Old Trafford.

During our tour we will see the stadium have the opportunity to view historical memorabilia at the Manchester United Museum.

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Manchester United Mega Store Spend time exploring and shopping in the worldrenowned Manchester United Megastore.

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Friendly Match Play a Friendly Match against a local club or academy team in the greater London area. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

Attend Professional Soccer Match Seeing international players compete in person would itself be unforgettable, but add the passionate crowds singing, cheering and chanting and you will enter an atmosphere that can only be understood through personal experience. Please note that this activity is subject to availability as it is based on the league’s fixture list at the dates the group is travelling.

DAY 9 —

Travel to North America Our rewarding and enjoyable tour comes to an end as our Tour Director accompanies us to the airport on our final day.

DAY 8 —

Travel to Liverpool

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Albert Dock Explore Albert Dock. Built of brick stone and cast iron, this showpiece development on Liverpool's waterfront opened in 1846, saw a long period of decline and has now been extensively renovated and refurbished

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Arrival in England & Training Day 3 Friendly Match & London City Tour Day 4 Training Session & Tower of London Day 5 Windsor Castle Tour, Windsor Free Time & Friendly Match Day 6 Travel to Manchester & Professional Coaching Clinic Day 7 Old Trafford Stadium Tour, Manchester United Megastore, & Friendly Match Day 8 Liverpool & Attend Professional Match Day 9 Depart from England

I always love traveling with WorldStrides as they do a great job of taking care of us on the road- hotels are great, competition was what we needed and the food and tours were amazing. Taking a group like our National ODP team to any tour can be hard to find the right balance, but you guys just seem to get it right all the time. Keep it up as we will see you guys again.

— DAWN CROW, USYS HEAD COACH

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Costa Rica Take your team to a new climate and explore everything from the city to the rainforest with WorldStrides Sports. Observe incredible wildlife, adventure through a river safari, hike along a volcano, and much more. Your athletes will be forever changed by this experience and bonded together as they work on key fundamentals affecting both their individual styles and team communication.

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Flight to Costa Rica

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Arrive in San José is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica. Located in the Central Valley, San José is the seat of national government, the focal point of political and economic activity, and the major transportation hub of this Central American nation. Today, it is a modern city with bustling commerce and brisk expressions of art and architecture. Spurred by the country's improved tourism industry, it is a significant destination and stopover for foreign visitors.

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Training Session We will participate in a training session at a local field. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

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San José City Tour Take a city bus and city walking tour of San José to view and visit some of the most important landmarks of the city. Highlights will include: Costa Rica's cherished National Theater, Art Museum, Metropolitan Cathedral the old and authentic Central Market, the National Monument, Democracy Plaza, and the new National Stadium of Costa Rica. Our tour may also include a tour of Proyecto Gol, the official training facilities of the Costa Rican National Team (subject to availability).

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Estadio Nacional De Costa Rica Take a guided tour of the National Stadium of Costa Rica (Estadio Nacional de Costa Rica).

A multi-purpose stadium in La Sabana Metropolitan Park, it is the first modern sport and event arena to be built in Central America. The stadium was completed in 2011 and officially opened its doors to the public on Saturday, March 26 of that same year with a capacity of 35,175 seats. The stadium serves as the home stadium of the Costa Rica national football team and it was used to host matches during the 2014 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup, including the opening game, the third place match, and the final.

Spotlight Tour: UC Davis The UC Davis Women's Soccer Team embarked on the program's first ever foreign tour with a trip to Costa Rica! The Aggies had a jam-packed agenda, highlighted by a match against the Costa Rican National Team. In between training sessions and scheduled games, they made plenty of time for trips and experiences, including a visit to the Heredia Zoo, a tour at La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and leading a clinic with Academia de Futbol Cubujuqui.

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DAY 3 —

La Paz Waterfall Gardens Visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens, one of the most beautiful and fascinating attractions in Costa Rica.

Enter the aviary to explore the birds of Costa Rica and even hold a toucan! Continue into the huge butterfly garden, featuring a variety of species and an excellent learning center.

Next, view the monkeys before we explore the hummingbird and orchid gardens. After lunch, visit the small serpentarium featuring many of Costa Rica's snake and lizard varieties. We continue to the cats exhibit to see the beautiful and massive Costa Rican jaguars. Hike down the perfectly laid out trails to viewing points along the four La Paz waterfalls, each seemingly more impressive than the last. Today, lunch will be included at La Paz's magnificent restaurant just off the hummingbird garden. The buffet lunch features traditional cuisine in one of the most beautiful open-air settings in Costa Rica.

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Friendly Match We will play a friendly match against a local club or academy team. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

DAY 2

DAY 1 —

Training Session We will participate in a training session at a local field. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

DAY 4 —

Travel to Tarcoles River

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Crocodile Jungle Safari Boat Tour Take a guided boat tour through the Rio Grande of Tarcoles on safe, comfortable boats.

See these magnificent ancient reptiles up close, with sizes of more than four meters.

Crocodiles have been on the planet for more than two hundred million years.

Since they haven't changed much over time, they are considered living dinosaurs.

We may also see iguanas, basilisks, and over 60 bird species in their natural environment. We will be accompanied

Itinerary Overview Day 1 Departure from North America; Arrival in Costa Rica & Training by a captain and a bilingual guide, both navigation experts willing to provide all the information about the fauna and flora of the river while facilitating the opportunity to photograph and film the wildlife at close range.

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Friendly Match We will play a friendly match against a local club or academy team. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

DAY 5 —

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is still active, although the last major eruptions were between 1963 and 1965, with occasional minor eruptions and some small lava flows since that time. The forest is made up of conifers and other exotic and native plus a native forest consisting mainly of oaks and alder that protects the watershed of the Reventado River.

The Crater Principal Lake has an unusual greenish-yellow coloring caused by rainfall dissolving the minerals along the crater's walls.

Training Session We will participate in a training session at a local field. The training session will be led by your own coaching staff and is designed to prepare the team for upcoming friendly matches.

DAY 7 —

Travel to the Central Pacific Coast We will spend the day relaxing on the beach or exploring and shopping in the town.

Attend Professional Match Attend a professional soccer match. Seeing international players compete in person would itself be unforgettable, but add the passionate crowds singing, cheering and chanting and you will enter an atmosphere that can only be understood through personal experience. Please note that this activity is subject to availability as it is based on the league’s fixture list at the dates the group is travelling.

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Professional Coaching Clinic We will participate in a special Coaching Clinic with a guest coach, player, or instructor. The clinic will be designed exclusively for the team to enhance skills in areas identified by the coaching staff.

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Irazu Volcano National Park Experience the unique surroundings of this national park as you visit the Irazu Volcano. The volcano

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Training Session & San Jose Sightseeing Day 3 La Paz Sightseeing & Friendly Match Day 4 Safari Boat Tour & Friendly Match Day 5 Training, Beach Time & Attend a Professional Match Day 6 Professional Coaching Clinic & Volcano Tour Day 7 River Rafting Tour & Friendly Match Day 8 Departure from Costa Rica

Friendly Match We will play a friendly match against a local club or academy team. The team will meet and compete against athletes of similar ages and skill levels.

DAY 8 —

DAY 6 —

Sarapiqui River Rafting The Sarapiqui River area is famous for its lush jungle scenery.

Duck, dodge, paddle, and laugh your way down the river as your heart races and your eyes dance with excitement! We will enjoy a guided trip with expert local guides, have the chance to see many animals, and enjoy some swimming in calmer areas of the river.

Day 2

Travel to North America Our rewarding and enjoyable tour comes to an end as our Tour Director accompanies us to the airport on our final day.

This was the program's first ever foreign tour—it's another milestone for this team and showcases what we are building here at UC Davis.

— UC DAVIS HEAD COACH TRACY HAMM

Scan the QR code to read more about UC Davis' trip to Costa Rica 28

WorldStrides Sports is much more than soccer

Soccer is where we got started, but it is not all we do! As different games grow in popularity, so do our international tour options. Take a look at our most commonly chosen sport specialties, and contact us about planning your team’s tour today.

Golf Tee it up at some of the world’s most famous courses and enjoy a multi-day Ryder Cup format tournament, along with practice rounds and plenty of time to sightsee throughout your host country.

Popular destinations: Ireland, Spain, Scotland, and England Basketball The international stage for this Americanborn sport grows increasingly more fanatic every year. The NBA’s wingspan reaches across the world, and more international clubs long to compete against North American teams at every age and level.

Popular destinations: Italy, Spain, Greece, and Costa Rica

Rugby Dating from 19th century England, this sport’s popularity continues to rise across North America. Your team will find impressive competition across the pond as well as incredible opportunities for both strategic and personal growth.

Popular destinations: England, Scotland, and Ireland Lacrosse Dominated by U.S. and Canadian teams for decades, word is getting out across the continents about the excitement of lacrosse, especially in the U.K. and Australia. With 47 countries included in the FIL, teams outside of North America are on the rise, and so is the talent.

Popular destinations: U.K., Ireland, and Australia Tours are also ready to be customized for these sports: — Volleyball — American Football — Water Polo — Tennis — Field Hockey

...and WorldStrides is much more than sports

WorldStrides' mission is to ignite personal growth for students through travel and study abroad at every stage of development. Whether it's a class trip to the U.S. Capitol, a collegiate study abroad opportunity, an individual career exploration program, a performance at a world-renowned international venue, or an athletic team trip, our offerings cover nearly every possible interest. You can learn more about WorldStrides by visiting worldstrides.com

Educational Travel Immersive domestic and international destination experiences to help your students discover the world beyond their classroom.

Career Exploration Skill development and hands-on career exploration experiences to further students' passions and give them a feel for future career opportunities.

Study Abroad In-depth study experiences in the most popular, relevant global destinations and on campus at some of the finest universities in the world.

Service-Learning Hands-on student investment and contribution to emerging communities around the globe, with a focus on reciprocity and continuity.

Language Immersion Intensive foreign language experiences powered by homestays with local families, plus complete immersion in local cultures and ways of life.

Performing Arts Professional mentoring, adjudication, and competition-focused performance on realworld stages in destinations both domestic and international.

Where is the field of your dreams?

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